Google Searching for Partners to Create Autonomous Cars

Google has been working on Self-driving cars for years now. However, now, they are looking to work with an auto maker to create self-driving cars that will be available to the masses. Google is said to be aiming at ride-sharing first, like Uber. And later down the road, aim these cars at consumers who would want their own self-driving car. There have been rumors that Ford and Google are working together on this venture, but nothing has been confirmed just yet. Google has, however, reached out to other auto makers in an attempt to partner up.

Google’s automotive VP, John Krafcik, stated last week in Detroit that his main goal for this year would be to work with auto makers to build self-driving cars. Effectively, they want to put their software into other cars. As they don’t want to get into the complex scheme of building their own cars. Which makes sense, and would make things much easier for Google. As these auto makers already have the factories, and not to mention the experience, of creating cars. However, Google may be a bit behind here. As many auto makers have already begun working on their own autonomous software. In fact, Ford made a few announcements about their autonomous cars. Including tripling their fleet on public roads by the end of 2016. Not to mention the fact they have self-driving cars driving in snowy conditions, while Google doesn’t. There’s also Tesla who has their own autonomous features already live in current Model S vehicles.

Autonomous cars still are a bit away from mass adoption, or even being able to buy one. But it’s clear that it’s coming and coming real soon. If CES and NAIAS didn’t already tell us that. If self-driving cars for ride-sharing picks up, many people may never buy another car. As ride-sharing could be even cheaper than it is right now. Seeing as you don’t need to pay for a driver. That right there would be the real future. Of course, we are still waiting on the Department of Transportation to draft up their rules and regulations for governing autonomous vehicles. The Secretary of Transportation, Anthony Foxx, gave them 6 months. So we should know more soon, especially what States will allow autonomous cars.